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Finding Providers Who Understand the Data on Black Maternal Death

By now you already know that Black women, no matter their socioeconomic status, die from pregnancy complications two-to-three times more than any other population in the United States. Dr. Cheryl Pegus, the former media chair for the Association of Black Cardiologists, emphasizes the importance of finding care providers who are attuned to the disproportionately high rate of Black maternal death in America. The data shows that you are more likely to have a successful pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience simply by having a provider who understands the complications impacting Black mothers and families.

But for Black women who are struggling financially, there is the additional burden of meeting costs after finding a suitable provider. For anyone in this position, Dr. Pegus recommends asking your doctor about special programs that offer subsidized education and treatment. "You need to understand the things to look out for," Dr. Pegus says, "not just diet, but treatment."

Visit OWN's Heart Health page throughout the month of February for vital updates and information about cardiac disease prevention.